SEMINAR ON ''GOI BLUE ECONOMY INITIATIVES'' HELD BY INDIAN COAST GUARD AT VISAKHAPATNAM A seminar on "GoI Blue Economy Initiatives" was recently organized by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Headquarters (Eastern Seaboard) at Visakhapatnam, focusing on the future roles and responsibilities of ICG and other government agencies in the protection of the marine environment, as well as promoting shipping and related interests in India. The event brought together experts from various government and shipping organizations, including Madras University, Andhra University, CIFNET Vizag, Indian Maritime Foundation, DG Shipping/MMD Vizag, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, INCOIS, NIOT, and the Vizag Chapter Company of Master Mariners of India. The seminar was chaired by ADG Donny Michael, PTM, TM, Coast Guard Commander of the Eastern Seaboard, and aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of India''s Blue Economy framework, with a focus on future opportunities and best practices. The presentations covered various aspects of marine environment protection, the promotion of maritime trade, and coastal development, all aligned with India''s vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047." The discussions revolved around the sustainable and secure harnessing of ocean resources. Key speakers outlined the Government of India’s strategic roadmap for strengthening marine environment protection, enhancing maritime safety, and promoting responsible shipping practices. One of the central themes was the expanding mandate of the Indian Coast Guard in areas such as pollution response, ecological monitoring, and maritime law enforcement, which are pivotal to advancing the Blue Economy. Furthermore, the seminar underscored the collaborative role of central and state agencies in improving marine governance, safeguarding coastal communities, and supporting emerging sectors such as fisheries, tourism, maritime trade, and offshore energy. By fostering cooperation and innovative solutions, the seminar aimed to contribute to the long-term sustainability of India’s maritime sector and its pivotal role in national development.

VISAKHAPATNAM STATION UPGRADES PASSENGER COMMUNICATION WITH NEW DIGITAL LED DISPLAYS The Waltair Division of East Coast Railway has enhanced passenger communication at Visakhapatnam railway station with the installation of 220 cutting-edge digital LED display screens. This upgrade is part of a new commercial advertisement contract aimed at improving passenger information while enhancing the station’s visual appeal. The new digital display system was inaugurated today by Shri Lalit Bohra, Divisional Railway Manager of Waltair Division, in the presence of Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Shri K. Pavan Kumar, Divisional Commercial Manager Smt. Pooja Singh, and other dignitaries. This initiative underscores the division''s commitment to passenger-centric digital innovation and the commercial growth of the station. The digital advertising contract, valid until 2030, promises long-term revenue generation and stability. As part of the project, the 220 LED screens are strategically placed across Visakhapatnam station, covering approximately 2000 sq. ft. of display area, including the station’s premises and pillars. The screens operate on a 50:50 time-sharing model, with equal space allocated for railway-related information and commercial advertisements. This setup ensures that crucial passenger updates, including train schedules, operational alerts, and emergency messages, are prominently displayed. The system is particularly beneficial during emergencies, such as cyclones, accidents, or other unforeseen events, ensuring the timely dissemination of vital information for passenger safety, crowd management, and effective communication. This digital transformation at Visakhapatnam station is part of a broader effort to enhance the passenger experience through technology while generating sustainable commercial revenue for the railway.

WALTAIR DIVISION OBSERVES CONSTITUTION DAY WITH ENTHUSIASM The Waltair Division of East Coast Railway marked the 76th Constitution Day, or Samvidhan Divas, with fervor and dedication today, on November 26. The day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of India by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, which came into effect on January 26, 1950. This year''s theme for the celebration was “Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman” (Our Constitution, Our Honour), paying tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Constitution, and the members of the Constituent Assembly. A special function was organized at 11:00 AM in the Divisional Railway Manager''s Office (DRM), Waltair, and across other divisions. The event underscored India’s commitment to the fundamental constitutional values and democratic traditions that guide the country’s governance. The ceremony at the DRM Office was led by Divisional Railway Manager, Shri Lalit Bohra, and attended by key officials, including ADRM Infra Shri E Santharam, ADRM Operations Shri K Rama Rao, Senior Divisional Personnel Officer Shri Jusuf Kabeer Ansari, along with branch officers and staff from various departments of Waltair Division. The event commenced with DRM Shri Lalit Bohra leading the reading of the Preamble to the Constitution, followed by its collective recitation by all present. Shri Bohra also delivered a speech on the importance of constitutional values in daily life and work, urging the staff to uphold these principles in their professional duties. In his address, DRM Shri Lalit Bohra emphasized that Constitution Day serves as a reminder of the foundational values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which are the cornerstones of India''s democracy. He highlighted the significance of the Constitution’s adoption on November 26, 1949, and its enforcement on January 26, 1950, which laid the foundation for India to be a sovereign, democratic republic.